Question

Choose the correct answer from the four options given below:

Cretinism and myxoedema are due to

• A. Hypersecretion of thyroxine
• B. Hypersecretion of growth hormones
• C. Hyposecretion of thyroxine
• D. Hyposecretion of growth hormones

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Hyposecretion of thyroxine

The correct option is C.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Hyposecretion of thyroxine causes a disease of retarded mental and physical development known as Cretinism.
2. Myxedema is a condition of swelling of the skin and underlying tissue caused by the deposition of sugar molecules, and increased weight, due to severe hypothyroidism
3. Cretinism is mostly congenital while myxedema generally occurs in elderly women.
4. Deficiency of dietary iodine plays an important role in both these diseases.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option A:

Hypersecretion of thyroxine occurs in hyperthyroidism with no and or symptoms like unexpected weight loss, rapid irregular heartbeat, etc.

Option B:

Hypersecretion of growth hormones causes gigantism in children and acromegaly in adults.

Option D:

Dwarfism occurs due to the hyposecretion of growth hormones.

Final answer: Cretinism and myxoedema are due to hyposecretion of thyroxine.